Welcome to the next edition of Venable's Telecommunications Industry News. This monthly newsletter will feature insights from our Telecommunications Practice Group on the latest issues affecting the wireless, telecommunications and space industries.
Insights
FCC Clarifies Broadband Labeling Requirements
The FCC has released an Order on Reconsideration resolving petitions that asked the Commission to reconsider or clarify certain broadband labeling requirements. Please see our summary of the original broadband labeling requirements.
What's in a Label? FCC Begins Rulemaking Procedure for Cybersecurity Labeling on IoT Devices
Cybersecurity and data protection is front and center on the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) agenda. The latest manifestation of this is the FCC's issuance of a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on August 25, 2023, which seeks comments on a proposed voluntary cybersecurity labeling program for Internet of Things devices or products.
Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Spectrum Management: FCC Adopts Notice of Inquiry on Spectrum Use Data
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has issued a Notice of Inquiry titled "Advancing Understanding of Non-Federal Spectrum Usage." The item seeks information about the use of wireless spectrum by entities regulated by the FCC, which includes commercial users and non-federal public safety agencies.
FCC Proposes $20 Million Forfeiture Against Telecommunications Service Providers for Failing to Protect User Data
The Federal Communication Commission issued a Notice of Apparent Liability for Forfeiture proposing a $20 million forfeiture, essentially a fine, against two telecommunications service providers for failing to properly authenticate customers' identity before providing online access to Customer Proprietary Network Information (CPNI). CPNI includes sensitive data, such as called phone numbers, the length and time of calls, and service features. FCC rules mandate that companies handling such information use "reasonable measures" to guard access to CPNI.
A Virtual Chat on the FCC and Artificial Intelligence
In this program, we will explore the likely implications of new forms of artificial intelligence for Federal Communications Commission policy and rules. Artificial intelligence—whatever the form or meaning—has become one of the hottest policy issues in Washington. The White House's Office of Science and Technology Policy and the U.S. Department of Commerce, among other agencies, have sought public comment and industry input into the development of a potential Federal policy on artificial intelligence, while Congress is exploring potential legislation.